A truly extraordinary underground residence that looks like it was plucked straight from Middle-earth has hit the market, offering Lord of the Rings enthusiasts the chance to live like a hobbit. The four-bedroom property, named Underhill, is currently listed on Rightmove for £1,350,000 (approximately $1.6 million) and features the whimsical charm of J.R.R. Tolkien's fictional Shire, complete with circular architectural elements and seamless integration into the natural landscape.
Located in the picturesque Holme Valley, a small village on the edge of Peak District National Park, this unique home spans 3,900 square feet and holds the remarkable distinction of being Britain's first modern earth-sheltered residence. The property is nestled among the area's renowned scenic hills, traditional stone villages, and protected moorland, creating an idyllic setting that perfectly complements its fantastical design.
At the heart of this architectural marvel lies a stunning hourglass-shaped indoor swimming pool, which serves as the home's centerpiece beneath a large skylight. The pool area creates a luxurious focal point around which the rest of the living spaces are thoughtfully arranged, demonstrating the innovative design philosophy that has made this property famous both nationally and internationally.
Conceived by visionary architect Arthur Quarmby in 1969 and completed in 1975, Underhill represents a masterclass in what experts call "geotecture" – a pioneering approach that combines sustainable design with inhabitable art. The Grade II listed property has been featured extensively in international literature and has appeared regularly on national and international television programs, cementing its status as an architectural landmark.
Built directly into the natural contours of the hillside, the home blends seamlessly with the surrounding Peak District landscape through its innovative earth-sheltered design. The property features a distinctive turf roof and planted embankments that create a low-impact, environmentally conscious profile while maintaining the magical hobbit-hole aesthetic that has captured imaginations worldwide.
Despite being largely underground, Underhill is flooded with natural light thanks to expansive southeast-facing glazing that frames breathtaking views of the open moorland. The main reception area offers open-plan living that has been cleverly divided and staged with furniture to create practical layouts, including a large family dining room that balances intimacy with panoramic beauty.
The property's unique layout includes several interconnected and versatile living areas designed for both privacy and communal gathering. Residents can enjoy a quiet reading corner in the sitting area, retreat to a cozy stone-walled cave featuring a log-burning fireplace, or entertain guests in the games room complete with a bar area. The kitchen, thoughtfully positioned slightly elevated above the central swimming pool, blends functionality with the home's distinctive architectural character while maintaining visual connection to the heart of the residence.
Underhill offers four double bedrooms, each strategically positioned to maximize privacy, comfort, and connection to the home's architectural flow. The bedrooms feature en-suite facilities and have been designed to take full advantage of the property's unique underground setting while ensuring adequate natural light and ventilation throughout.
The exterior grounds are equally impressive, featuring professionally landscaped gardens surrounding the main residence, along with a paddock area for those interested in keeping animals. Additional structures include a double garage with studio space and a charming stone shepherd's hut, adding both practical storage and rustic appeal to the property.
According to Fine & Country, the estate agents marketing the property, Underhill represents far more than just a unique residence. "Underhill is not just a house – it's a pioneering example of geotecture, combining sustainability, innovation, and artistry," the listing emphasizes, highlighting the property's significance in architectural history and its continued relevance in modern sustainable design discussions.
The property currently holds outline planning permission for the construction of an additional annex in the rose garden area, offering potential buyers the opportunity to expand the living space while maintaining the property's distinctive character. All viewings are being conducted strictly by appointment, reflecting both the property's high value and its status as a significant architectural landmark that requires careful preservation and respect.
